Senator Ted Cruz expressed strong disapproval of the Democrats’ conduct during President Donald Trump’s recent address to Congress, labeling it as “disgraceful.” Reflecting on his experience attending 13 State of the Union addresses, Cruz noted that he had “never seen such a disgraceful display as the Democrats put on.”
Cruz highlighted that from the moment President Trump was introduced, not a single Democrat stood or applauded—a departure from traditional respect for the office. He contrasted this with his own actions during previous administrations, stating that he always stood and clapped for Presidents Obama and Biden, despite policy disagreements, out of respect for the office and the American people.
The senator further criticized Democrats for remaining seated during tributes to American citizens honored in the speech, including the families of victims like Jocelyn Nungaray and Laken Riley, a 13-year-old brain cancer survivor, and the son of a fallen police officer who received an admission to West Point during the address. Cruz observed that even the Joint Chiefs applauded the young man’s achievement, yet Democrats did not.
Cruz also pointed out that the only moment Democrats stood and cheered was when mentioning the allocation of funds to Ukraine, implying a lack of support for domestic issues. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of unity and respect during such addresses, suggesting that the Democrats’ behavior was a departure from these values.
Democrats wouldn’t clap for the families of Jocelyn Nungaray, Laken Riley, the 13-year-old boy with brain cancer, or the kid of a fallen police officer.
In all 13 State of the Unions I’ve attended, I have never seen such a disgraceful display from the Democrats. pic.twitter.com/jZlDGQYYZX
— Senator Ted Cruz (@SenTedCruz) March 5, 2025